It’s no secret that gratitude is part of our DNA at Reach Partners. That said, the holidays bring new emphasis to something I feel strongly about even when it’s not the season of gifts: the thank you note.

Nobody can argue with the ease of sending a thank you note by email. And we believe there is value in quick shout-outs of gratitude via Twitter and Facebook.

Yet when it comes to saying thanks, email can’t replace the personal touch or lasting impression left by a handwritten note. It takes time to address an envelope, find a stamp, and deliver it to the mailbox. I believe that effort is noticed and appreciated by the recipient.

Here are some additional tips for writing a meaningful thank you note:

Use a notecard that aligns with your business or personal brand. The card doesn’t need your logo on it, but it should feel like it came from you. (As a person, you may want to use a cat-themed notecard; that might not work for your business correspondence.) Reach Partners has blank note cards that can be used for all sorts of notes, including thank yous.

We also took the advice of author Bob Burg and have branded notecards. Our logo is printed on the front; our photos and contact information are printed on the back. These work well when thanking people who meet us for a networking lunch or coffee. Instead of including a business card, which sometimes feels a bit cheesy, our information is right there for the gleaning.

Keep the message simple and short. You don’t have to go on-and-on about the wonderful time you had. You don’t have to fill the entire notecard. As designers will tell you: white space is okay.

Stay authentic. Your words should come from a place of gratitude. Write something specific, but don’t say something you don’t mean. For example, if you suggest getting together for lunch when you have no intention of following up, skip the mention. And, please, don’t use the thank you note as an excuse to ask for an additional favor.

Use your computer’s spellcheck and grammar check tools. Go ahead and type your note in a Word document before handwriting it. For those of us who are spelling challenged, these tools can help us feel more confident about our message. Don’t let fear of a misspelling or misuse of a whatchamajigal phrase stop you from expressing your thanks.

Send the note the same day or day after, if possible. I also recognize that life happens. If you don’t get the note out quickly, still send it. A late note is better than none at all. No excuses are needed.

Confirm the recipient’s mailing address before writing the note. Some people don’t share their mailing address publicly. If you can’t find a mailing address, go ahead and send an email, or a message via Facebook or LinkedIn.

We are big believers in looking for ways to improve ourselves professionally and personally. It’s good for our work, and it’s good for our souls.

It also means we’re big fans of podcasts. And, apparently, we’re not alone.

Podcasts have seen an enormous surge in popularity this year. Each week 42 million Americans, about 15 percent of the population, listen to these digital audio programs. (In case you’re wondering, about 3 percent of Americans go to the movies weekly.)

We understand why podcasts have become so popular. They’re easy to listen to when you’re driving, working out, or even needing a short break from the work day. Depending on the program, you can learn something interesting or be inspired to do better.

As more and more podcasts get produced, it can be challenging to narrow down what programs to listen to. Below are some of our favorites. Some of these are more work-focused, while others expand our horizons in other ways. Either way, we’ve found these all worthy of our time and hope you will enjoy them, too.

What’s your favorite podcast?

Inspirational Podcasts

The Kindness Podcast: I love to support friends who have delved into the world of podcasts. Nicole Phillips is a champion for kindness who has shared her message in a weekly newspaper column, as an author, and as a public speaker. She recently took her message to a new platform as she shares stories about how kindness has transformed individual lives. Every time I hear her, I am reminded that being kind is simple, yet not easy. – Anita

I find deep wisdom in the words of authors Brene Brown and Danielle LaPorte. Any podcast host who books these women as guests gets my full attention (and adoration!) – Anita

Personal Growth Podcasts

Good Life Project: This project (and its accompanying podcast) is the brainchild of Jonathan Fields, who wears numerous hats including those of author, entrepreneur, community-builder and teacher. In his own words, he sits down with some of the “wisest, most-accomplished teachers, creators and leaders, learning at their feet, then sharing their wisdom …” I have to agree. Every time I listen, I’m inspired to grow and do better. – Anita

Professional Development Podcasts

Zenger Folkman Leadership: I’m a fan of a produced show where there is little banter and opinion, and the topics are well-researched. This podcast fits that definition. Dr. Jack Zenger and Dr. Joseph Folkman created leadership training and development programs based on research for their best-selling book, “The Extraordinary Leader: Turning Good Managers into Great Leaders.” I always learn something from them. – Rachel

Read to Lead: This podcast came highly recommended by members of the Chamber’s Business Training Committee that I volunteer with. Host Jeff Brown interviews successful and inspiring business book authors. He believes intentional and consistent reading can help to hone leadership skills and advance personal growth. I’m subscribing. – Anita

Educational Podcasts

The Allusionist: This is a podcast about language, and it’s delightful. Expect to learn about topics as diverse as the role played by hyperbolic numerals (zillion and kajillion) and how we use terms that apply to humans on the move. This podcast always stretches my understanding. Bonus: the host has a cool British accent. – Rachel

99% Invisible: This podcast gives us a glimpse into all the thought that goes into the unnoticed architecture and design that shape our world. It makes me think about things like “what would happen if we got rid of road signs?” and the role of the U.S. Postal Service. Fascinating listen. – Rachel

On Being with Krista Tippett: I’m new to podcasts, but have always loved examining new concepts and theories. “On Being” explores the big questions: What does it mean to be human, and how do we want to live? Nothing excites me more. – Sean

Wow in the World: I’m diving into this podcast for my math- and science-loving daughters. The team behind it strives to tell stories that inspire families to use their imagination and follow their curiosity. We love the podcast because it helps us look at the everyday world around us while reinforcing our daughters’ interests in STEAM concepts. – Sean